How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Vietnam Temporary Residence Card

Losing or damaging your Vietnam temporary residence card (TRC) can be a stressful experience for any foreigner residing in Vietnam. However, Vietnamese immigration law provides clear procedures for the replacement of a lost or damaged TRC. In this article, we guide you through the legal process, required documents, deadlines, and common mistakes to avoid. In case you need advice, please contact Apolo Lawyers via email at contact@apolo.com.vn or Hotline (+84) 903 419 479 for the best advice and support.

How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Vietnam Temporary Residence Card

1. Why Replacing a TRC Is Urgent and Mandatory

A Vietnam temporary residence card functions not only as proof of lawful residence, but also as a legal document required for various activities such as banking, leasing, internal travel, and re-entry into Vietnam. Losing it may:

• Lead to fines if not reported in time
• Prevent you from re-entering the country if you travel abroad
• Affect your immigration status if prolonged

That is why replacement must be done immediately after the loss or damage is discovered.

2. Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Lost or Damaged TRC

Step 1: Report the Loss to Local Police

Within 24 hours of discovering the loss, you must report it to the nearest police station where your residence is registered. They will issue a police loss report confirmation, which is a required document for the replacement process.

⚠️ Failure to report promptly may result in administrative fines or application rejection.

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

To apply for a replacement of your Vietnam temporary residence card, you will need to prepare:

• A written request for reissuance from the sponsoring organization or individual
• The police loss report or damage explanation (for damaged cards)
• A valid passport (with remaining validity ≥ TRC duration)
• Visa/entry documents proving your legal stay
• A residence registration certificate from the local police
• Two passport-sized photos (2x3 cm, white background)
• The original TRC (in case of damaged card)

In some cases, the immigration office may require a statement of responsibility from the employer or sponsor.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Applications for TRC replacement must be submitted to one of the following:

• Vietnam Immigration Department (Ministry of Public Security), or
• Provincial Immigration Office where the foreigner is residing

Step 4: Pay the Processing Fee

Fees may vary depending on the duration and type of TRC. On average, the replacement fee ranges from USD 10 to USD 100.

How to Replace a Lost or Damaged Vietnam Temporary Residence Card

3. How Long Does It Take to Get a New TRC?

The processing time for a TRC replacement is typically 5–7 working days from the date of submission of a complete dossier. However, delays can occur if documents are missing or require verification.

4. Can You Leave Vietnam While Waiting for the Replacement?

If your TRC was lost and you need to leave the country, you must apply for an exit visa at the Immigration Office. Without a TRC or valid visa, exit and re-entry can be legally complicated. In urgent situations, legal assistance is highly recommended.

5. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Waiting too long to report the loss or submit the application

• Incorrect or incomplete documents (e.g., old photos, missing police report)
• Applying without sponsor of confirmation, especially for work-based TRCs
• Traveling abroad before receiving the replacement, which can lead to entry denial

6. Legal Support from Apolo Lawyers

Navigating the process of replacing a Vietnam temporary residence card can be difficult without local knowledge or language skills. At Apolo Lawyers, we offer:

• Guidance on document preparation
• Direct liaison with immigration officers
• Emergency support for urgent exit/re-entry cases
• Full legal representation for both individual and corporate clients

Losing your Vietnam temporary residence card does not mean losing your legal status—if you act fast and follow the correct procedure. Timely reporting, accurate documentation, and professional assistance are the keys to ensuring a smooth replacement process.

>> Read more: Renewing a Vietnam Temporary Residence Card: Procedures, Deadlines, and Common Mistakes

APOLO LAWYERS